Ursuline College: Diane Petruccio

Like many of Ursuline's non-traditional students, Diane entered college with both job and family responsibilities. "With a husband and 3 children, I needed a school that I could commute to, as well as one that offered the program I was interested in. I found, through research, that Ursuline best suited my situation and my interests." She intended to advance in the parish job she held at the time, but Ursuline led her to something entirely different.

During her studies, Diane held an on-campus work-study job, which quickly translated to a full-time offer from the Admission office when she graduated. Eventually, she progressed from there to the Transfer Credit Evaluator, and now sits as the Director of Institutional Research -- not necessarily what you'd expect for someone who studied Religion!

"I would have to say that the one UC experience that led to where I am now is the fact that a solid liberal arts education enabled me to assume jobs and responsibilities that were not in my field of study, and be able to pursue them with confidence." High praise, indeed.

Now, Diane is earning her Master's in Liberal Studies at UC, and she says it's the most rewarding journey she's taken to date. "The courses are interesting and stimulating, and discussions continue well beyond the classroom to include almost anytime we're together."